Chef Larry Stewart has announced, via Twitter, that he has shut down the business.

“It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we inform you that HardwareGrill is permanently closed for business. Our employees were hardworking, dedicated and we are grateful for their service,” said the tweet, signed by restaurant co-owners Larry and Melinda Stewart.

Hardware Grill opened in 1996 on Jasper Avenue and 97 Street in the home of the former W.W. Arcade, a legendary hardware store. Under the tutelage of chef/owner Larry Stewart (who honed his chops at Earl’s, inventing the legendary sushi cone), it quickly became the go-to for fine dining in Edmonton, with celebrity guests from Drake to Gordon Ramsay.

In 2013, Stewart expanded his restaurant business with the opening of Tavern 1903, a vintage bar and contemporary lounge in the historic Alberta Hotel, located just down the street from the Hardware Grill. The restaurant was renowned for its trendy cocktails and cutting-edge mozzarella bar. But it closed just a year later after a dispute with the landlord.

“Restaurants and food are our heart and soul. The decision to close our doors was agonizing,” wrote the Stewarts at the time, declining to comment further.